UNM leader warns of intensified repression ahead of 4 October rally

Georgia’s opposition United National Movement (UNM) has warned that what it calls Bidzina Ivanishvili’s “repressive machine” will intensify ahead of the 4 October local elections and planned opposition rally.

Speaking on Wednesday, UNM chair Tina Bokuchava said she did not rule out further arrests of government critics in the coming days.

“Ivanishvili is very afraid that tens of thousands of people will take to Rustaveli Avenue. This contrast - between the so-called elections and the crowds on the streets - is dangerous for him, and that is why the repressive machine is working with particular intensity and cruelty,” Bokuchava said.

She also renewed calls for the UK to impose sanctions on Ivanishvili, noting what she described as his “large assets” in Britain and offshore territories.

Her comments came shortly after the State Security Service confirmed the arrest of Zviad Kuprava, a UNM member and Tbilisi City Council representative, accusing him of calling for the overthrow of the government in a video statement.